Yesterday, the Braves made a plethora of roster moves in regard to their bullpen. Jesse Chavez rejoined the major-league club, while Collin McHugh, Nick Anderson, and Daysbel Hernandez all began their rehab assignments in Gwinnett.
However, for those still holding out hope that Collin McHugh might look like the pitcher he was last season by the time the postseason arrives, it might be time to finally jump ship. He was battered in his first rehab appearance for the Stripers last night to the tune of four runs while recording just one out.
Unfortunately, McHugh just hasn’t been the same guy this season that he has been over the last several years of his career. Whether it’s been injuries or just age catching up to him, it’s overwhelmingly evident his stuff has deteriorated, and there’s no way he can be trusted in a playoff setting.
Nick Anderson also struggled last night, only recording one out while giving up two runs.
Given Anderson was so productive prior to his injury, I’m a little more bullish on him figuring it out in time for the playoffs, but he’ll have to show more if he wants to be included on the NLDS roster. The Braves could really use his arm at the back end of their bullpen.
On a positive note, Daysbel Hernandez looked much better in his first rehab assignment, giving up no runs over 0.2 innings with two strikeouts. He did, however, walk two batters.
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